[5] The crossing was established in 1841 by the Croft family, who operated it until 1893, when the Ferry Committee of the Improvement Act District of Fleetwood took it over.

During this period, a new landing stage was built at Knott End in 1897 to accommodate a new ferry, the Onward, which could carry 120 passengers.

[6] The Crofts tendered to retain control of the service in 1898, but the council opted to run its own vessels.

The Onward, Quail and Nymph were purchased from the family, members of which were appointed to various roles, from ferry manager to general assistants.

[5] The Wyresdale remained the primary ferry for the next thirty years or so, with the smaller Pilling providing assistance during off-peak times.